A Novel Romance: 2010 Bridal Fashion Show at Ace Hotel

What I love most about Elizabeth Dye's bridal creations and her wonderful Portland boutique, The English Dept., is how clearly you can hear her voice sweetly soaring above the clatter and din of the others as they completely lose the plot. The English Dept. celebrates the fantasy and whimsy that we frequently forget to embrace in the day-to-day. Get swept away at The 2010 "A Novel Romance Bridal Fashion Show". In its fifth year, there are promises copious amounts of "runway candy" and sweet ephemeral surprises. The lavish production will debut new collections by Jenny Yoo, Alix & Kelly, Coren Moore and others, as well as one of a kind dresses by Elizabeth Dye and unique accessories by local designers.

Look for fancy hair adornments from lovely local company, Twigs & Honey by Myra Callan, as well as lush, romantic bridal bouquets designed by Pam Zsori from Ink & Peat. This once-yearly event is packed with stylish wedding inspiration! RSVP by calling call T: (503) 224-0724 or email The English Dept. at info@theenglishdept.com.

In an industry that can feel so antediluvian and alienating, finding a bridal designer who you can relate to is like a beacon in the night. For many women, simply walking into a mainstream bridal store for a peek at wedding gowns, can turn out to be a farce and a folly, both physically and mentally. You find yourself swarmed by salespeople trying to keep your attention rapt and your pulse racing, as they noisily rustle around with cliche Princess dresses. You find yourself surrounded by these strangers, who relentlessly repeat one of the biggest moneymaking slogans of all time, "This will be the most important day of your life." Elizabeth Dye and her lovely bridal boutique, The English Dept., are a refuge for women who want to take the fear factor out and keep their eye on what is really important: the romance.

"I love runway sculpture and fantasy, but I think the best designs try to get inside the head or heart of the person who will be wearing them."—Elizabeth Dye, fashion designer and owner of The English Dept.

Recently, The English Dept. launched Elizabeth's 2010 "Heroine Collection". The line consists of nine exquisite dresses, all love letters to some of Elizabeth's favorite literary heroines. Certain silhouettes from the 1930s, 40s and 50s will always be flattering for many body types and this collection really honors the female form. The "Oysters and Pearls" dress blows me away, but I am particularly fond of the "Honeychurch" because of my love for E.M. Forster and his great novel, "A Room With A View". The dress immediately conjures visions of Helena Bonham Carter's brilliant portrayal of Miss Lucy Honeychurch in the 1985 Merchant-Ivory film adaptation. Elizabeth’s intention was to offer a simple, budget friendly collection—all dresses are under $1,000—for clients who aren't looking to conspire and co-create their gown, but still want Elizabeth Dye's discerning eye and impeccable aesthetic. Because many of the dresses use sourced vintage materials, each handmade design will still be unique to each bride.

"My clients are so cool. I am really lucky," says Elizabeth, "I love getting to know these women and oftentimes we become friends over the course of our journey together." Working with a designer who lives up to the high standards she sets for herself can do wonders for alleviating stress and adds confidence throughout your planning. On her blog, Elizabeth posts images that her clients send to her after they've returned to their daily routine. Besides looking elegant and stunning in her creations, there always seems to be a certain strength in their eyes that is particularly beautiful. You see women looking truly happy, relaxed and comfortable in their own skin. They look present, in the moment and like they are having an absolute ball!

Thoughtful perspective and a pure romantic aesthetic, like Elizabeth Dye's, has been sorely lacking in the garish mainstream muck that betrothed couples muddle through. Thankfully, the desire for handmade, quality items has become progressively more important in every category for consumers. More and more people are changing their shopping habits and choosing to have a real connection to what they spend their dollars on. With increased demand, visibility and accessibility to delightful independent bridal design, women are choosing alternatives to the humdrum of mass production. People want heirloom quality pieces that have a story behind them and, like their marriage, will stand the test of time. Visit The English Dept. at 1124 SW Alder St. in Portland, Oregon. Hours: Tue-Fri 11am - 6pm, Sat 10am - 6pm & Sun 10am - 2pm.The English Dept. celebrates the fantasy and whimsy that we frequently forget to embrace in the day-to-day.

Read more about Elizabeth Dye & The English Dept. in my recent Shop Oregon feature, here.